It’s a question we are often asked, especially for chronic lower back pain and with an over reliance by many on pharmaceutical drugs we thought we’d give our evidence based input.

In many cases, particularly with more chronic injuries, inflammation isn’t the prime issue causing the pain… the majority of the time, the prime pain causing structure is the muscle and other soft tissues. Taking an 'anti inflam' really won’t make the world of difference.

Scientific proof

If you want to see some evidence of this, check out this study from the Scientific World Journal (Feb 2014): https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/24707200

The study found that “DTM (Deep Tissue Massage) had a positive effect on reducing pain in patients with chronic lower back pain. Concurrent use of DTM and NSAID (Non steroidal anti inflammatory drug) contributed to lower back pain reduction in a similar degree that the DTM did.”

Obviously there are times where anti inflammatory’s are required and can offer significant relief. Realistically the reality is that they are often overused when manual therapy should be implemented.

This overuse often leads to people seeking treatment out at a later stage than they should. It also results in a longer pain episode and longer healing times.

If you suffer lower back pain check out how Remedial Massage can help you. Our remedial massage therapists are experts in relief for chronic pain and associated conditions, and can guide you pain management practices.